Eileen Mary Ortiz

Eileen Mary Ortiz (nee Melendez)—affectionately known as Gigi, Mom, Mommasan, Filomena Fettuccini, and many other playful names—was a woman whose spirit could light up any room. She was the kind of person who would grab a flashlight and belt out Rapture by Blondie at the top of her lungs just to make someone laugh.

Eileen passed away at the age of 93 on March 14, 2026, in Tucson, AZ. She was born on January 1, 1933, in Brooklyn, NY. She was previously married to David Ortiz Sr. and remained connected to the many lives and memories they built together.

She graduated from Amityville High School in 1951 and went on to attend Barnard College. Never one to stop growing, Eileen returned to school in 1986 to earn a degree in accounting. She built a long and dedicated career in accounting, beginning with Golden Cycle and later retiring from American Family Insurance.

Eileen was preceded in death by her parents, John and Mary Melendez; her siblings Joseph, Delia, Willie, Ralph, and Louie; her son Donald James Ortiz; and her grandson Jacob Andrew Lancaster. She is survived by her son David Ortiz Jr. and his wife Deborah Marie, her daughter Delia Rosa Ortiz and partner Christopher Heath, and her beloved grandchildren Erik David Ortiz and his wife Laura, Elena Marie Ortiz and her partner Travis Revicki. She is also lovingly remembered by her grandsons Jamie Ortiz and Dustin Ortiz.

Eileen grew up in Copiague, New York, and her life carried her across many places, including Connecticut, Colorado, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Puerto Rico, and Arizona. Wherever she went, she left behind laughter, stories, and lasting friendships.

As a young girl, she studied ballet and later explored modeling. She had a deep love for art, music, and reading—often finishing up to ten books a week. She adored Hallmark Channel movies for their messages of hope and love. Her fondness for characters like Eeyore, Sylvester, Calvin and Hobbes, and Snoopy—after whom she even named her beloved beagle—reflected her playful and imaginative heart.

Eileen had a gift for connection. She could strike up a conversation with a stranger and, by the end of the day, call them a friend. That was simply who she was—someone who saw friendship and possibility in everyone she met. She lived with curiosity, humor, and a sense of adventure that never faded.

As she journeys onward, it feels only fitting to remember her through the words of Calvin and Hobbes: “It’s a magical world, buddy… let’s go exploring.”

God bless her, and may she forever soar with the angels.

Eileen was cremated on March 22, 2026. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor her memory by planting flowers or a tree—continuing her legacy of life, growth, and beauty.